04:11 PM Feb 14, 2012

President Obama’s announced revision of the Affordable Care Act’s requirement to provide preventative care, including contraceptives, ensures access to important healthcare coverage for women while respecting the sensitivities of religiously affiliated service providers, said the Jewish Council for Public Affairs.

“The President’s policy acknowledges that health care options should be available not only to those with independent means,” said JCPA President Rabbi Steve Gutow. “At the same time, it respects the religious convictions of religiously affiliated organizations. The White House and the Department of Health and Human Services are to be commended for incorporating input from religious organizations into Affordable Care Act’s regulations. Implementing legislation can be difficult and we appreciate the President’s effort to balance the interests of religiously affiliated organizations and the importance of ensuring that women have access to preventative health services, including contraception.”

“For most Americans, comprehensive health care includes contraceptive options. This policy provides health care coverage for workers while similarly protecting the prerogatives of religious employers,” said JCPA Chair Dr. Conrad Giles. “Religious liberty is integral to American law, society and tradition. We applaud the President’s efforts to respectfully implement the Affordable Care Act and ensure that all Americans have the opportunity to access a comprehensive suite of health care options.”